Today we’d like to introduce you to Ileana Rivera.
Hi Ileana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Onestop Institute was born out of a profound personal challenge. Upon relocating from Puerto Rico to Florida with my family due to financial hardship, I encountered a significant hurdle: language. While my husband was able to seamlessly continue his career, I, despite having an established profession in Puerto Rico, could not. The primary obstacle was English, the dominant language in Florida and, unfortunately, a secondary one in my own life. Revalidating my existing medical studies proved incredibly difficult, exacerbated by the scarcity of medical programs offered in Spanish in Florida. The situation was further compounded by the fact that licensing exams were exclusively in English. This convergence of factors led to deep frustration and feelings of helplessness, pushing me into a state of depression.
However, I eventually resolved not to succumb to these feelings. I enrolled in an English course, which proved instrumental in helping me acquire the necessary licenses. After gaining licensure and working in the field, my colleagues and I recognized a pervasive issue within the burgeoning Hispanic community: many individuals were facing the exact same challenges I had overcome.
This realization sparked the idea for Onestop Institute. We designed our courses to be bilingual, offered in both Spanish and English. This approach allows students to learn their chosen vocation in their preferred language while simultaneously preparing them for the English-language certification exams. Furthermore, we’ve successfully advocated for some licensing exams to be offered in Spanish, further easing the path for our students. Our mission is to empower Hispanic professionals, providing them with the tools and support they need to re-establish their careers and thrive in their new home.
Onestop Institute officially opened its doors in 2020. While many businesses faced unprecedented closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Onestop Institute not only navigated these challenges but has successfully maintained continuous operation ever since. This resilience underscores our commitment to our students and our mission, even in the face of adversity.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Onestop Institute LLC has faced its share of significant challenges since its inception. The first hurdle was launching operations with limited financial resources, relying on personal savings. This restricted our initial operational development and growth.
Another major challenge was the COVID-19 pandemic. Even when stay-at-home orders were lifted, many prospective students were hesitant to attend in-person classes due to health concerns.
Perhaps the most demanding challenge was meeting the rigorous requirements of the Florida Commission for Independent Education. Gaining our license to operate legally was a complex and demanding process, but one that we successfully navigated to ensure we could provide quality, compliant education.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m currently the founder, president and lead instructor for all the courses we offer at Onestop Institute.
My professional journey began in Puerto Rico, where I worked at two well-respected hospitals: Manati Medical Center in Manatí and the Puerto Rico Children’s Hospital in Bayamón. I also provided in-home care for children requiring ventilator assistance.
After moving to Florida and obtaining my licenses and certifications, I gained valuable experience working in various senior care centers, clinical laboratories, and medical offices. Beyond my role at Onestop Institute, I also serve as the pastor of the Christian Church León de Judá.
Among the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing our students take and pass their licensing exams. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know I’ve helped individuals achieve their dreams and goals. We also take immense pride in visiting a lab or medical office and finding one of our graduates working there. Equally satisfying are the messages we receive from numerous employers commending how well-trained our students are.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My initial inspiration and the very dream of Onestop Institute came from my Lord and Savior, Jesus. He provided the vision to establish Onestop and, most importantly, the strength to face the challenges of its founding alongside my husband. Thank you, my Lord.
My most significant collaborator, helper, accountant, and manager—truly a man of many hats—is my wonderful husband, Juan Serrano, who serves as the Vice President of Onestop Institute. His extensive experience in finance was absolutely crucial in bringing Onestop Institute to fruition.
And of course, we are incredibly grateful to all our students who support us by referring new students, a testament to the performance and services we proudly offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Onestopinstitute.com
- Instagram: onestop_institute
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onestopinstitutefl
